fence

fence · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A barrier made of wood, metal, or other material enclosing an area of ground.

  2. 2.

    To enclose or surround with a fence.

  3. 3.

    (slang) A person who receives and sells stolen goods.

  4. 4.

    To practice or engage in the sport of fencing.

  5. 5.

    (sports) In show jumping, an obstacle for horses to jump over.

  6. 6.

    (slang) To buy or sell stolen goods.

Forms

plural: fences

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    on the fence — Undecided or neutral about an issue
  • •
    mend fences — To improve strained relationships
  • •
    good fences make good neighbors — Clear boundaries help maintain peaceful relations
  • •
    fence in — To enclose or restrict

Related words

See also: barrier, fences, fencing
Synonyms: barrier, enclosure, railing

Etymology

From Middle English fens, short for defens ("defense"), from Old French defens. The original meaning related to defense or protection, which evolved to mean a protective barrier.